Hiroshima and Nagasaki: Nuclear Weapons 1945 — Reading Comprehension

In August 1945, during the final days of World War II, the United States dropped two atomic bombs on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. This decision marked the first and only use of nuclear weapons in war. The immediate cause was Japan's refusal to surrender after years of conflict, even as Germany had already been defeated in Europe. President Harry S. Truman and his advisors believed using the bomb would quickly end the war and save both American and Japanese lives that might be lost in a land invasion.

The development of the atomic bomb was part of the secret Manhattan Project, a massive scientific effort involving thousands of people. The new weapon released energy by splitting atoms, causing destruction far greater than any previous bomb. On August 6, 1945, the United States dropped the first bomb on Hiroshima, instantly killing tens of thousands. Three days later, a second bomb was dropped on Nagasaki, causing further devastation. Japan announced its surrender on August 15, 1945, just days after the attacks.

Leaders in the United States argued that these actions were necessary for a swift end to the war. President Truman wrote, "We have used [the bomb] in order to shorten the agony of war," expressing his belief in the bomb's role as a solution. Many Americans at the time agreed, seeing the bomb as a tool to avoid a costly invasion. However, others—both in the U.S. and around the world—questioned the morality and necessity of such extreme force. Some scientists who worked on the bomb, like Leo Szilard, warned that "the use of atomic bombs against Japan cannot be justified." Their concerns focused on the ethical consequences and the risk of starting a dangerous nuclear arms race.

For Japanese civilians, the impact was catastrophic. The two bombings killed over 100,000 people and left many more suffering from burns, radiation sickness, and long-term illness. Survivors, known as hibakusha, faced discrimination and health problems for decades. The devastation of Hiroshima and Nagasaki demonstrated the destructive power of nuclear weapons and raised new questions about human rights and the responsibilities of nations during war.

The attacks also changed international relations. The Soviet Union, a U.S. ally against Germany and Japan, viewed the bombings with suspicion. Within weeks, the Soviets began working to develop their own nuclear weapons, marking the start of a global arms race and the Cold War. The events at Hiroshima and Nagasaki forced world leaders to consider how to control such powerful technology and prevent future nuclear conflict.

In summary, the use of atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki ended World War II but introduced new dangers and ethical debates. While some saw the bombings as a necessary solution to a deadly problem, others believed they created even greater risks for humanity. The historical evidence shows that this event was not just a military decision; it was a turning point that reshaped global politics and the meaning of war.

Interesting Fact: After World War II, many countries signed treaties to limit nuclear weapons, hoping to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

When was the first atomic bomb dropped?

Which cities were bombed in 1945?

What was the Manhattan Project?

Why did Truman use the bomb?

What viewpoint did some scientists express?

What global conflict did the bombings begin?

The bombings led to Japan's surrender. True or False?

What does 'ethical' mean in the passage?